For new degree students
By selecting a degree programme you are able to see the general content as well as the possible degree programme-specific content. You do not have to select a degree programme to see the Open University's instructions.
Search for degree programme
When you search for a degree programme by name or by part of the name the options in the list of degree programmes below the search field is narrowed down. After this you have to choose the degree programme from the list.
Open University programmes
Bachelor's Programmes
Master's and Licentiate's Programmes
Doctoral Programmes
Specialist training programmes
Instructions
International degree student's journey
The student journey will help you figure out your path and the services available to you!
First steps of a new degree student
Welcome to the University of Helsinki! Please follow the instruction on this page carefully, as they are intended for all new Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
Don't wait - get prepared for your studies
On this page you will find information on what new students should explore and do before the beginning of the academic year. You might even be able to embark on your first course before the orientation activities start!
Residence permit for degree students
If you plan to study in Finland for more than three months, in some cases you need to apply for a residence permit. On this page you will find instructions on what to do if you need a residence permit.
Health insurance
It is very important that you have good health insurance that is valid during the entire time your studies last. On this page you will find information on health insurance.
Housing
On this page you will find useful hints and sources of information for house hunters.
Register with the authorities: degree students
After arriving in Finland you will have to register with a few relevant authorities within a certain period of time. On this page, you will find information on registering targeted for degree students.
Orientation and Tutoring
As a new degree student, you will start your studies with an orientation period under the guidance of a student tutor. On this page you will find information about orientation and tutoring.
Late arrival checklist for degree students
When you know that you will not be able to take part in the orientation week, inform the Admissions Services, your degree programme and your Faculty Tutor Coordinator about your late arrival.
University user accounts
At the start of your studies, you get access to a University username that is used to log into email, Sisu, Moodle and other services. Remember to activate your username before your studies start.
Student's digital skills
Student’s Digital Skills is a compulsory course for all undergraduate students pursuing a first-cycle degree at the University of Helsinki. These instructions provide the links and material needed for the completion of the course.
Finding your way
This page provides information on the many options that help you find your way to downtown Helsinki and to the different campuses upon your arrival to Finland.
Study planning and PSP guidance
A personal study plan (PSP) is part of every degree. In a PSP, you can yourself plan how you intend to progress in your studies. On this page you will find your degree programme's PSP instructions.
Language PSP – Proficiency in the languages of Finland
The aim of this Language PSP (personal study plan) is to help you reflect on and set goals for learning Finnish/Swedish – primarily independently and, if necessary, through discussions with your teachers.
Vocabulary for new students
Whether you are a new or an old student, here you can find explanations for key terms related to academic studies and student life.
Open a bank account
If you are studying in Finland for a longer time it is advisable to open a Finnish bank account. On this page you will find instructions on what to consider when opening a bank account.
Tuition fees
If you are liable to pay for tuition, this page is for you.
Students’ responsibilities in studies
This page provides information on your responsibilities as a student, such as attending classes and turning in your assignments.
Updating your personal information and contact details
On this page you will find information on what to do when your name or address changes.
Student Advice
The student service points provide student advice for all students at the University for example with questions relate to your studies, study rights, annual registration, and language and communication studies. The student advice chat bot Hubotti is available for your questions 24/7.
Student Union of the University of Helsinki (HYY)
HYY serves as an advocate, service provider and community for students. On this page you will find information on HYY's services, activities and events.
Healthcare Services for Students
The Finnish Student Health Service can help you with your health and illness related questions. This page provides information on some of the healthcare services you can utilise during your studies.
Culture Shock & Homesickness
Experiencing culture shock or homesickness while studying abroad? Whether you're dealing with culture shock, homesickness, or both, the stages, experiences, and how to respond to them are all relatively similar. This page provides information on and tips for dealing with culture shock and homesickness.
UniSport sport services
UniSport offers affordable sport and wellbeing services. Read more about the services of UniSport on this page.
Moving to Finland with children
This page provides useful links for international degree students moving to the capital region with their children.
Course selection in Swedish
The university offers a large number of courses in Swedish across all campuses. On this page you will find information on the university's course selection in Swedish.